The Development of Taurine Supplementary Menus for the Prevention of Dementia and Their Positive Effect on the Cognitive Function in the Elderly with Dementia.

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the effects on the cognitive function of the elderly with dementia, after consumption of menus developed to prevent dementia. For the purpose of this study, we developed two menus incorporating lotus seeds and taurine which are known to be effective in preventing dementia: tea supplemented with taurine and lotus seed (TATL) and scorched glutinous rice water supplemented with taurine and lotus seed (SATL). The most optimized supplement was determined through sensory evaluation, and was served with the normal diet for 4\xa0weeks. The subjects of this study were 46 elderly women with dementia, divided into three groups: 16 subjects in the taurine supplement group (TG), 15 subjects in the taurine and lotus seeds supplement group (TLG), and 15 subjects in the control group (CG). Cognitive function was assessed by comparing the scores of MMSE-DS (Mini-Mental State Examination-Dementia Screening) before and after dietary supplementation, with higher scores indicating better cognitive functions. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 for Windows. The total score of MMSE-DS before supplementation SATL was not significantly different between CG (14.1 points), TG (14.2 points), and TLG (13.8 points). However, after consuming the SATL supplement, the total score of TG (16.7 points) and TLG (16.9 points) significantly increased (p\xa0<\xa00.01). In particular, in the case of TG, a significant increase was observed in the score for Judgment and abstract thinking (p\xa0<\xa00.05). An increased tendency was also observed for scores of Place orientation (p\xa0=\xa00.071) and Ability to execute (p\xa0=\xa00.054), although statistically not significant. In the case of TLG, score of Place orientation and Judgment and abstract thinking was significantly increased (p\xa0<\xa00.05). These results show that dietary taurine supplementation has positive effects on the cognitive function (MMSE-DS) of elderly women with dementia. There-fore, it is necessary to include dietary taurine supplementation for the treatment and prevention of dementia. In addition, it is necessary to develop and supply a variety of menus containing taurine.